President John Dramani Mahama has officially cut sod for the construction of the 200-kilometer Wenchi–Bole–Sawla–Wa road network, a major infrastructure project under his government’s flagship Big Push Agenda. The initiative aims to open up Ghana’s N12 corridor to enhance trade, regional integration, and connectivity with Burkina Faso and Mali.
Speaking at a colorful ceremony in Sawla, President Mahama said the project would transform transportation across three key regions, Bono East, Savannah, and Upper West, while boosting economic activities and improving the movement of goods and people.
“We are here to cut sod to cover three regions, Bono East, Savannah, and Upper West. Today’s sod cutting covers the reconstruction of the road all the way from Wenchi to Wa,” President Mahama stated. “It will be a new, well-constructed road that can handle the increasing traffic as an international route to landlocked countries like Burkina Faso and Mali.”
Strategic National Road Project
The President emphasized that the project is part of a strategic effort to enhance regional development and expand Ghana’s road infrastructure to support industrialization and cross-border trade.
He revealed that the same contractor working on the Wenchi–Wa Road will also handle the reconstruction of the Fufulso–Sawla Road, which was completed during his previous administration but has since deteriorated due to poor maintenance.
“We’re here to open a new corridor of progress to reconnect regions, markets, and families,” President Mahama added. “Every part of Ghana deserves modern infrastructure, dignity, and opportunity.”
Minister Commends President Mahama’s Vision
The Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, lauded President Mahama for his commitment to delivering transformational road projects that link key economic zones.
“From Wenchi to Wa is about 200 kilometers. No government has ever shown this level of ambition,” the Minister said. “A section of this road was awarded before you came, but the contractor never went to site because financing was never secured. You came, included it in the Big Push Agenda, and made it happen.”
Boosting Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy and Regional Trade
The Wenchi–Bole–Sawla–Wa road forms a crucial part of Ghana’s N12 highway, a route that connects the southern parts of the country to the Sahel region. The reconstruction will ease transportation challenges, improve access to markets, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a trade gateway to West Africa.
The project aligns with the Big Push Agenda, President Mahama’s bold infrastructure investment policy designed to stimulate the 24-hour economy, create sustainable jobs, and revitalize local industries.
Economic and Social Impact
When completed, the 200km stretch will significantly reduce travel time between the three regions, promote tourism, enhance agricultural trade, and improve access to health and education services for rural communities.
The project is also expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs during its construction phase, providing economic relief for residents in the beneficiary regions.
Key Facts:
- Project Name: Wenchi–Bole–Sawla–Wa Road Reconstruction
- Length: 200 kilometers
- Regions Covered: Bono East, Savannah, and Upper West
- Program: Big Push Agenda
- Linked Routes: N12 International Corridor
- Purpose: Boost trade, regional integration, and 24-hour economy development
